The National Cherry Blossom Festival runs from March 27 through April 11. The trees are expected to bloom between March 28 and April 9, with the peak blooming period from April 1 through April 4. The festival offers dozens of events throughout 16 days, some free. Here’s a look at some highlights.
Opening Day — Saturday
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It’s family day at the National Building Museum (401 F St. NW). Enjoy music, crafts and the Washington Ballet. Family Day runs from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with the Opening Ceremony to follow from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Free.
Cherry Blast: A Night of Contemporary Art + Music –April 2
Something for the younger — but not too young — crowd. Check out art, dance, film, fashion, music and DJs, produced by the Pink Line Project. 21+ $10 cover (includes one drink ticket). 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. 1701 Florida Ave. NW.
Fireworks –April 3
The traditional fireworks take place on the Southwest Waterfront (600 Water St. SW) at 8:30 p.m. The prelude to the fireworks begins at 5 p.m. and includes plenty of family activities. Free.
Parade and Street Festival –April 10
These are two separate events on the festival’s final weekend. The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade is from 10 a.m. to noon, and runs down Constitution Avenue between Seventh and 17th streets NW. In addition to bands, floats and balloons, check out “American Idol” finalist Justin Guarini, singer Deborah Cox and 2010 Miss America Caressa Cameron of Fredericksburg, Va. $17 for grandstand tickets, free to stand along the route. The Japanese Street Festival is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 12th and Pennsylvania NW. Plenty of food, drink and entertainment. Free.
For a complete rundown of National Cherry Blossom Festival events, visit nationalcherryblossomfestival.org call 877-442-5666.
— Robert Fulton
